Each October, Sousse, Tunisia, wakes to a celebration that transforms its ancient medina into a stage for Caravanserai Cultural Days. This event revives the historic caravanserai system—hospitable stops for traders travelling the Silk Road—and invites visitors to experience the city’s vibrant cultural pulse through music, art, and storytelling. The medina’s winding alleys become alive with traditional craftspeople demonstrating weaving and pottery, while nearby courtyards host folk performances and workshops that bridge centuries of heritage with today’s community spirit.

Sousse’s caravanserais, stone and wood refuges from harsh desert stretches, are more than architecture; they are portals into Tunisia’s trading past. Participating in Cultural Days provides an intimate look into this network’s role in shaping the city’s identity. Visitors can wander through restored caravanserais that once welcomed merchants from across North Africa and beyond. These venues hold exhibitions that narrate the routes of spices, textiles, and stories, making history tactile and immediate.

To get the most from the Caravanserai Cultural Days, plan your visit during the afternoon when the light softens and courtyards bustle with activity. Local guides offer compelling tours outlining the medina’s layout, highlighting caravanserai spots often missed by casual visitors. Foot traffic here can be dense; comfortable shoes and a water bottle are essentials as the terrain is cobbled and occasionally uneven.

Beyond the medina, Sousse’s Mediterranean breeze carries the scent of olive groves and sea salt, encouraging exploration of the nearby beaches and fortifications after your cultural immersion. The blend of historical depth and lively contemporary offerings creates a unique festival experience for adventurers interested in both past and present.

To prepare, bring layered clothing to adjust as temperatures shift from warm afternoons to cooler evenings. Expect interactive workshops where you can try your hand at traditional crafts or sample local flavors. With small crowds due to controlled event access, the experience remains intimate, making Caravanserai Cultural Days a rare chance to engage with Tunisia’s rich heritage authentically and accessibly.